Kyle Lowry has been the East’s best point guard in the playoffs, and it might be what pushes the Raptors into the NBA Finals. A Raptors game occupying space in the palm of Kyle Lowry’s hand isn’t really a new thing. Exerting control over on court proceedings is kind of his bag. But in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals — a convincing 120-102, series-evening win for the Raptors — Lowry may have taken ownership of the game’s tenor in a personal-best time.
A brilliant off-ball relocation for a three out of a high pick-and-roll with Marc Gasol; a smooth pocket pass to Gasol who missed an easy floater; a corner three in the eye of George Hill that slayed at least a couple ghosts of 2016; a perfect trip to the line; a pacey drive-and-kick to a trailing Gasol for three; a leak-out for a layup off a Danny Green steal; and a 17-foot step back jumper over Nikola Mirotic. For a lot of guys, that would make for a decent half. For Lowry on Tuesday, though, that list detailed less than half a quarter’s work.
In the opening five minutes and 15 seconds of Game 4, the Raptors …

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Author: Sean Woodley / Raptors HQ